How To Delay Your Period: Myths, Facts & Safe Options
It not only causes mood swings but also dulls your excitement.
Sometimes, life brings moments that we want to fully enjoy—be it a celebration, a long-awaited trip, or some commitment. In such times, the thought of menstruation overlapping with these plans can cause concern. This is why many people use a period calculator to gauge their period dates and then make plans. Or else, they search for ways on how to delay your period for a week or how to delay periods naturally for 2 days. But with so much information—especially from home remedies and traditional advice—it’s hard to know what truly works and what’s simply a myth.
Have you ever wondered, ‘How to delay your period naturally?’, and whether it’s safe to do so? You're not alone. Many girls and women explore these questions, often with little clear guidance. That’s why we’re here—to separate myths from facts and help you make informed choices. Whether for health, comfort, or convenience, let’s take a closer look at what’s real and what isn’t when it comes to managing your cycle.
Understanding Menstrual Cycle & Period Delay
To better understand how to delay your period, it helps to first know how the menstrual cycle works. A typical cycle lasts between 21 to 35 days, controlled by hormonal changes in the body. Ovulation and menstruation are key phases, and any disruption—natural or intentional—can affect when your period starts. Some people explore ways on how to delay your period naturally, such as through dietary changes, exercise, or herbal remedies. Others may consider medical options like hormonal pills, but these should always be used under a healthcare provider’s guidance. While delaying your period occasionally may be safe, frequent attempts without proper knowledge can lead to hormonal imbalance or health issues. Understanding your cycle helps you make better choices, whether for personal comfort, cultural reasons, or special occasions.
Fact: Pills Help To Delay Periods
Birth control pills containing estrogen and progesterone are sometimes used to delay periods. Keep in mind that before consuming any kind of birth control pill, you must consult your doctor. As there are various options available in the market, your doctor can guide you with the one that can specifically help you lengthen your menstrual cycle. Read more about phases in a menstrual cycle.
Myths: Natural Remedies Delay Periods
If you want to know how to delay periods naturally at home, then the following remedies are for you. Keep in mind, these remedies don’t guarantee any results.
1. Gram Lentils
Certain reports suggest that having gram lentils in powder form, just days before your periods can delay periods. But there isn’t enough evidence that supports this remedy. Also, consuming too much gram lentils (fibre) can cause bloating or upset your stomach.
2. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has been suggested as a cure for many ailments like bloating, acne and much more. Some people believe that it also helps in delaying periods. But in reality, it might trigger menstruation in women who have irregular periods and cause them to experience their period twice a month.
3. Lemon Juice
Lemon is acidic in nature and it’s linked with delaying periods
You might have heard this one. But have you wondered how to delay your period with lemon? Lemon is acidic in nature and it’s linked with delaying periods. However, there isn’t enough research to back this remedy. In case you try to use lemon to delay periods, make sure to dilute it with water or a cup of tea.
4. Gelatin
Mixing gelatin with water and drinking this mix is said to push back your periods. But again, it’s unclear how it works and there isn’t enough research to verify this remedy. Too much consumption of gelatin can, in fact, lead to digestive issues or even cause bloating.
While you may be tempted to try out these remedies, keep in mind that consulting your doctor before you attempt any of these methods is of utmost importance.
Myth or Fact: Can Exercise delay your period?
Chances are that rigorous exercises might cause a delay in your periods. It’s seen that professional athletes have at times experienced missed or delayed periods. The reason being, your body exhausts its energy during the workout. It operates on low to no energy levels which sometimes isn't able to trigger your menstrual cycle. Having said that, there isn’t any evidence that backs this claim.
Medical Methods to Delay Your Period
When looking into how to delay your period, medical methods can offer a reliable solution—especially for those who need a predictable outcome. One of the most common options is using hormonal birth control pills. If you’re already on the pill, your doctor may recommend skipping the placebo pills—the hormone-free tablets taken during the last week—to prevent the drop in hormones that triggers menstruation. This prevents the drop in hormones that triggers menstruation.
For others, a healthcare provider might prescribe progesterone tablets to delay periods for a short time. While these methods are generally effective, they should only be used under medical supervision. It's important to understand how your body might react, especially if you’ve never taken hormonal medication before. Unlike some suggestions on how to delay your period naturally, medical options offer more control—but they are not suitable for everyone. Always speak to a doctor or clinic before trying any method to delay your period.
Is it safe to delay periods?
Yes, it’s safe to delay periods - given that you do it the right way. If you want to delay your periods, you must speak to your doctor and ask for the best option for you.
Natural & Lifestyle Factors That May Affect Period Timing
Your menstrual cycle can be influenced by more than just biology—your daily habits and lifestyle also play a role. Stress, sudden weight changes, intense physical activity, and even changes in sleep patterns can affect when your period arrives. Some people searching for how to delay your period naturally try methods like drinking vinegar or herbal teas. While these remedies are widely shared, there is limited scientific proof of their effectiveness. However, maintaining a balanced diet, managing stress, and getting enough rest can naturally support a regular cycle. In some cases, high stress or travel—especially across time zones—may cause a slight delay without any intervention. Though these lifestyle factors may not directly affect the timing of your period, they are important for overall menstrual health.
Now that you are familiar with how to delay your periods, it’s time to be prepared for it. You need to make sure to use the best quality sanitary pads or tampons . Try out the ALWAYS Maxi Thick Pads which have an innovative extra-absorbent core that keeps you protected for hours at stretch. Likewise, the unique anti-leakage barriers ensure maximum coverage and leak-free periods. Further, its high flexi wings keeps your pad in place and allows you to move freely!
If you are a tampon user, ALWAYS has got something for you too. Enjoy the smooth and easy insertion with the anti-slip applicator given in the ALWAYS TAMPAX Compak Tampons. Also, don’t miss out on its protective skirt which minimizes the risk of leakage. It's made available in three varied sizes to suit your heavy, light and medium flow days.
On that note, we hope that your plans are stress and period-free! In case you have any additional doubts related to how to delay periods, then you must talk to your doctor.
Read more about period symptoms, and what causes period pains.
Stay well prepared for your next period by tracking it on Always Period Calculator.
Disclaimer
Please note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice, diagnosis or treatment from your doctor or other qualified clinician. Always is committed to ensuring that all of our products meet rigorous safety standards; Always pads prioritize safety, protection and comfort of its consumers.